the quakers of the mid 17th century were prohibited from practicinger that religion which includes part of what is now new york state. in response, a group of local activists wrote a declaration against religious persecution. although 356 years old, its intent still shines brightly in the ideals embraces today. in 1657, 30 english citizens stood against oppression and asserted the rights of quakers and our religious minorities to practice their religion. they wrote, quote, we desire not to judge least we be judged, condemn least we be condemned but let man stand or fall to his own master. it was against judging and condemning others for what they believed. it was met with great opposition from the local government in what is known today as flushing queens. one of the greatest and most outspoken proponents of religious freedom at the time was an english immigrant named john bown. at great risk to himself, he invited the quakers to hold religious services in his own home. he was arrested for doing so, fined and then banished to his homeland to holland for his crimes. to in holland, john w